In Brigitte Reimann's gripping novella, Woman in the Pillory, Kathrin finds herself in a disenchanting marriage five years in, struggling to manage a farm with her sister-in-law. Her husband, Heinrich, is away fighting for the Third Reich, and to aid with the harvest, he arranges for Alexei, a Russian prisoner of war, to work the fields. Initially wary of this watchful stranger, Kathrin soon finds herself drawn to Alexei, leading to ruinous consequences. First published in 1956, this formative work by one of East Germany’s most significant writers explores the ideological legacy of Nazi Germany and the Communist drive to forge 'a new kind of person' after the war's devastation.

Why You Should Read?

• Experience a powerful, never-before-translated novella from a celebrated East German author.
• Delve into a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships amidst the backdrop of World War II.
• Gain insight into the ideological struggles and societal changes in post-war Germany.
• Discover a significant work by Brigitte Reimann, known for her vivid engagement with historical and political themes.

About the Author

Brigitte Reimann (1933-1973) was a highly influential East German writer, celebrated for her candid and often critical portrayal of life in the German Democratic Republic. Her works, including the acclaimed novel Siblings, explored themes of individual freedom, artistic integrity, and the challenges of building a new society after the devastation of World War II. Reimann's distinctive voice and ideological engagement made her a significant figure in 20th-century German literature.

Lucy Jones is the translator of this edition, bringing Brigitte Reimann's powerful narrative to English-speaking audiences for the first time.